When I first tried Chicken With Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Sauce, I was absolutely amazed at how such a simple dish could taste so luxurious. The sauce is a dreamy combination of rich cream, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a hint of garlic that clings to tender, golden-brown chicken. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a gourmet chef, yet it comes together so quickly, even on a busy weeknight.
I love how versatile this dish is. You can serve it over mashed potatoes, pasta, or even a bed of creamy cauliflower for a low-carb option. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) taste just as delicious as the first time you serve them. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I can’t wait to share all the details so you can add it to your favorites list too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This dish isn’t just about the creaminess; it’s about the full experience of flavor, ease, and versatility.
Quick and Easy
If you’re craving something impressive but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this recipe is your answer. It comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner. Minimal prep and simple steps mean less stress and more deliciousness.
Rich and Flavorful
The sun-dried tomatoes bring a burst of tanginess, while the garlic and Parmesan add depth. The creamy sauce balances everything perfectly, creating a satisfying dish with every bite. A touch of red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor with a subtle kick.
Versatile Pairing Options
Serve this chicken with mashed potatoes, bread, or roasted veggies. It works just as well with pasta or rice, so you can adapt it to suit your cravings or family preferences. A fresh side salad can lighten up the meal for a well-rounded plate.
Easy to Customize
Whether you want to add some extra greens like spinach or use chicken breasts instead of thighs, this recipe is super flexible. Make it your own! You can also swap the Parmesan for another cheese like Asiago for a different twist.
Cooking Time
Here’s how long you’ll need to prepare this creamy delight.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
This recipe uses simple ingredients that pack a ton of flavor.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons oil from a sun-dried tomato jar
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- ¼ cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Variations
Adjust this recipe to match your preferences or dietary needs.
- Lighten Up the Sauce: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or try Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or portobello mushrooms for a plant-based twist.
- Add Greens: Toss in baby spinach or kale for additional nutrients and color.
Equipment You’ll Need
These tools make preparation easy and mess-free.
- Large Skillet: For cooking the chicken and making the sauce in one pan.
- Tongs: To flip the chicken without splatter.
- Microplane or Grater: For finely shredding the Parmesan.
How to Make Chicken with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce?
This step-by-step guide ensures flawless results every time!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken🍗🍅
Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides. This should take about 6 minutes for thighs or 4 minutes for breasts. Remove the chicken and set it aside. 🥄
Step 2: Create the Flavor Base
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 15 seconds until fragrant, then pour in the white wine. Scrape the pan to mix the caramelized bits into the liquid. Simmer for about a minute until the alcohol burns off. 🍷
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Stir in the mustard, chicken broth, cream, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for about 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. 😋
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the chicken back into the pan and spoon the sauce over each piece. Simmer for another minute to meld the flavors, then sprinkle with fresh basil for a pop of brightness. Serve immediately, paired with your favorite side dish. Enjoy!
Tips for Making the Recipe
These handy tips will ensure flawless execution and even better flavor.
Use High-Quality Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts into the sauce better and adds a richer taste. Avoid pre-shredded varieties. The pre-packaged versions often contain anti-caking agents that affect the texture.
Don’t Skip the Oil: The oil from the sun-dried tomato jar is packed with flavor. Using it to cook the chicken layers the sun-dried tomato goodness throughout the dish.
Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce feels too thick, you can thin it with a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water. This keeps the flavors balanced while preventing the sauce from becoming too heavy.
How to Serve Chicken with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce?
This dish is a match made in heaven with starchy sides like mashed potatoes, pasta, or bread to soak up the delectable sauce. For a lighter option, serve it with cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles. Garnish the plate with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of Parmesan for that final polished touch.
Nutritional Information
Each serving is packed with flavor while keeping things balanced.
- Calories: 529
- Protein: 42g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fat: 33g
Make Ahead and Storage
This recipe is perfect for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers later.
Make Ahead
The creamy sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Storage
Keep leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain the creamy consistency of the sauce. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cream sauce may change.
Chicken with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce is a dish that effortlessly blends comfort and elegance. Its rich sauce, tender chicken, and quick preparation make it a keeper for busy weekdays or impressive dinners. Treat yourself to this simple yet unforgettable culinary gem! 😊
Chicken With Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Sauce
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons oil from a sun-dried tomato jar
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes drained and chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- ¼ cup white wine or chicken broth
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides. This should take about 6 minutes for thighs or 4 minutes for breasts. Remove the chicken and set it aside. 🥄
- Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 15 seconds until fragrant, then pour in the white wine. Scrape the pan to mix the caramelized bits into the liquid. Simmer for about a minute until the alcohol burns off. 🍷
- Stir in the mustard, chicken broth, cream, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for about 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. 😋
- Add the chicken back into the pan and spoon the sauce over each piece. Simmer for another minute to meld the flavors, then sprinkle with fresh basil for a pop of brightness. Serve immediately, paired with your favorite side dish. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use High-Quality Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts into the sauce better and adds a richer taste. Avoid pre-shredded varieties. The pre-packaged versions often contain anti-caking agents that affect the texture.
- Don’t Skip the Oil: The oil from the sun-dried tomato jar is packed with flavor. Using it to cook the chicken layers the sun-dried tomato goodness throughout the dish.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce feels too thick, you can thin it with a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water. This keeps the flavors balanced while preventing the sauce from becoming too heavy.
